I finished the gown and finished the hat and decided to try them on together. Overall, I'm happy with the outcome of this experiment. I have also learned a few things that I both like and dislike.First, starting with the wulsthaube, I think its a bit plain. I really like the corner picture with the embroidery around the edge, so I'm going to add some white work.

As for the gown, I really like the reeding around the waist and ribcage. It really does help hold the dress down and I have fantastic arm movement. I also love how the rolled pleats fall. I think I need to bring up the front a slight bit more to avoid accidently stepping on the skirt. I also noticed the waist line is a bit long. I wanted to lower it a bit to create a slightly longer waist shown in most depictions, but I think I went a bit far. Stopping an inch or inch and half shorter would still create the longer waist but not make it so obvious it's constructed. I would also either lower the reeds in the back or lower the back neckline (or both). There is a definate line where the reeds stop. Part of this I believe is due to over engineering on my part (since I sanded the reeds, I don't think I need the double canvas folded over the ends, which creates some extra bulk that is seen). I'm also a bit unhappy with the hook and eye closure around my chest which isn't laying as smoothly as I wanted. This may be in part to the curve I was forced to include to allow for the chest. Unfortunately hidden lacing wasn't closing. This may improve with some additional iorning to help smooth the fabric along the curve. Finally, the slash in puff is great. I'm only said that it had to be more forced than I would have otherwise liked it, but since linen frays, a lot, there wasn't much else to be done.

This looks amazing. I do have 1 question: how do you launder a bodice with reeds?

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Cerridwen

1/15/2013 12:11:39 am

Thank you! I launder the bodice by either spot cleaning, hand washing, or taking it to a dry cleaner depending upon what is truly needed. Be sure to advise the dry cleaner of the reeds, just so they can advise ahead of time if they have an issue.

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Vicki Martin

2/10/2013 11:39:26 pm

This turned out lovely! The slashing just puts it over the top!

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Xibee

4/8/2013 08:40:42 am

Thanks so much for these great step-by-steps; my German, quasi German/Saxon gown will be the better for them. I only hope I can sew on rolled pleats without too much struggle. Looks difficult!.

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My name is Cerridwen verch Ioreword. My SCA persona is that of a mid 14th century noblewoman in Wales. However, as you can see, I don't feel the need to limit my interests there!